Postdoc at Ohio State

The Ohio State University Department of Education and Department of Physics are jointly seeking a postdoctoral fellow in physics education research. The successful candidate will work on a project recently funded by the National Science Foundation. This project will investigate fundamental aspects of solving introductory-level synthesis physics problems requiring a joint application of multiple concepts. We attempt to explicate bottlenecks of student solving synthesis problems, understand expert approaches to synthesis problems, and design effective methods to improve student skills in solving such problems. The candidate's responsibilities primarily include working in collaboration with physics and education faculty to design effective research plans, strategies and instructional materials, implementing empirical studies in physics education, performing qualitative and/or quantitative data analysis, and publishing research results in prime physics/science education journals. The candidate will also have the opportunity to work closely with the faculty in both departments to advise graduate and undergraduate students, manage project-related activities, and participate in classroom teaching and curriculum development.


Qualifications: Candidates must have a Ph.D. degree by the time of employment in physics education research/science education research or a closely related field. A strong disciplinary background in physics or closely related areas is required. Experience in the research topics of student conceptual understanding, problem solving and reasoning is preferred. The candidate will also have strong interpersonal and communicative skills, a high sense of responsibility, and the ability to initiate and complete research projects.


The position is a twelve-month appointment and is renewable for a second year contingent upon performance and the availability of funds. Preference will be given to those who can start as soon as possible, including applicants available in Summer/Autumn 2014.  Candidates should submit a letter of application, curriculum vitae including a list of publications, summary of research accomplishments, a brief description of research interests, and at least three letters of recommendation to: Prof. Lin Ding (Department of Teaching and Learning, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, email:ding.65@osu.edu) Electronic submissions welcome athttps://www.jobsatosu.com/  refer to posting number 378959 (10/142013-10/20/2013).


Review of applications will begin November 15 and continue until the position is filled. Women and minority candidates are especially encouraged to apply.  The Ohio State University is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer.